Nitecore HC65 headlamp review

The Nitecore HC65 headlamp released in 2018. It uses Cree XM-L2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this headlamp provides up to 1000 lm output, 3000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 110 m.

Excited to learn if the HC65 lives up to expectations? Read on!

Table of Contents

• Nitecore HC65 specifications
  • Body, materials, weight, colors
  • System, LED, lens, reflector
  • Performance, flux, intensity, throw
  • Software, user interface, modes
  • Features, battery, protections
  • Accessories, package contents
• Conclusion, pros and cons
• Photos

The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Nitecore HC65, then tell us.

The HC65 headlamp is designed to provide hands-free light. It lets the user to have both hands free for other tasks while having a focused light source. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The memory function is a nice feature, the light will remember the last used mode. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available. This Nitecore USB rechargeable flashlight comes with versatile charging options.

Nitecore HC65 specifications

This is a comfortable headlamp. Whether you're engaging in outdoor activities like camping, running, or fishing, etc.

Body, materials, weight, colors

The HC65 is small, compact, and designed for ultra-portability. The length of a flashlight can affect how it feels in your hand and how you can grip and maneuver it. The aluminium body of the HC65 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. The HAIII coating resists corrosion well. It shields the aluminum from moisture, humidity, and other corrosive elements. The HC65 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

System, LED, lens, reflector

Cree is a US-based LED manufacturer. It is well-regarded for its high-quality products and innovation in lighting. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources. The HC65 has a smooth reflector. The right reflector focuses light well. It gives you a better hotspot, and it throws better. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

With 1000 lm, the HC65 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The HC65 flashlight has 3000 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.

Software, user interface, modes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The HC65's SOS mode produces a specific sequence of long and short flashes. It signals distress or emergency.

Features, battery, protections

The Nitecore HC65 flashlight is powered by 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The battery indicator helps users check the battery status. It also estimates how much runtime they have left before recharging the battery. The built-in charger allows for convenient and versatile charging. You can use various USB power sources to recharge the battery. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power.

The built-in thermal control adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress. Extra LEDs have different colors or modes, they can help with specific tasks.

Accessories, package contents

It comes with a battery. The battery must be fully charged before you first use your HC65. Replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps a lot. It keeps up the flashlight's durability and performance.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the HC65 flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Photos

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by David Hagon

I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.